The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) on Tuesday held a high-level meeting with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to advance the Nigerian National Single Window (NSW) project.
The meeting reviewed the collaboration between NCS and NSW Secretariat, agreeing on steps for integration and implementation.
The discussions reflected a shared commitment to national economic growth and the modernisation of trade processes, with the stakeholders reaffirming the importance of inter-agency cooperation in achieving NSW’s objectives.
The NSW is a Federal Government initiative aimed at simplifying trade procedures, enhancing transparency and delivering substantial economic benefits to Nigeria.
The project was launched by President Bola Tinubu in April 2024, with the presidency setting an operational take-off target for the first quarter of 2026, thus setting the timeframe for agencies to complete system integration and readiness.
Dr Zacch Adedeji, Executive-Chairman, FIRS, said that synergy with the NCS was integral to actualising the project within the timeframe provided.
“We are at the stage where we all need what is required for what is to be done and the help that is required to get the job done right.
“We want to synergise with the NCS. It is high time we get involved, because now, Mr President has given us till the first quarter of 2026.
“I am here to support the Nigerian Customs Service to achieve the launching of the National Single Window and to seek further collaboration ahead of the launching of the first phase in March 2026,” he said.
The Comptroller-General of NCS, Mr Adewale Adeniyi, stressed the importance of aligning stakeholders for NSW implementation.
“We are here to exchange ideas and have open discussions that will help our preparations for the National Single Window.
“This project is important to Mr President. Since the beginning of this administration, it has been listed among the key policies to create an environment that facilitates trade and makes the Nigerian economy more competitive.
“The goal is to develop a trade ecosystem, which involves integrating technology into our processes,” he said.
Mr Tola Fakolade, Director, NSW, said that the project had moved into the critical development and integration phase after a year of assessments and requirement analyses.
Fakolade said that the single window served as the central hub, linking all participating agencies into one unified platform.
“Achieving seamless integration at this stage is essential for meeting the Q1 2026 operational target, and we are here to ensure the necessary support is in place to stay on track,” he said.
He said that when fully operational, NSW would wide-ranging benefits to Nigerians.
“Businesses will experience quicker cargo clearances, lower operational costs and fewer bureaucratic bottlenecks, enabling them to trade more competitively both locally and internationally.
“Government revenue will be boosted through reduced leakages and improved compliance, freeing up funds for national development projects.
“Consumers will also benefit from lower prices and faster access to goods, as reduced delays in the supply chain mean products reach markets more quickly,” he said.
Fakolade said that the system would also enhance Nigeria’s reputation in global trade, attracting more investment and creating jobs across multiple sectors.
The engagement further strengthened the relationship between NCS and NSW secretariat, reinforcing a unified vision for a more efficient, transparent and competitive trade environment.
